RN La Isla Escondida

Putumayo > Colombia

RN La Isla Escondida is a relatively young reserve (2016) in primary rainforest in the foothills of the Colombian Andes (850 metres asl).

Added* by Jurgen Beckers
Most recent update 6 septembrie 2025

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Description

The reserve is located at an altitude of 850 meters above sea level, where the foothills of the Andes and the Amazon meet. The reserve covers 130 hectares and consists mainly (90%) of primary forest. Due to its location, the reserve is home to a wide variety of bird species (lowland, Andes, and foothills). The reserve has two platforms in the trees with views over the surrounding canopy.

To date, more than 450 species have been recorded, including some special and rare ones: Red-winged Wood-Rail, Black Tinamou, Nocturnal Curassow, Salvin's Curassow, Foothill Screech-Owl, Buff-tailed Sicklebill, Gould's Jewelfront, Black-faced Hawk, Fulvous Antshrike, Hairy-crested Antbird, Spectacled Bristle-Tyrant, Buff-throated Tody-Tyrant and Gray-tailed Piha.

Details

Access

The reserve lies in Amazonian foothills of the Andes, not far from the Ecuadorian border. Best is to fly from Bogota to PUU (Puerto Asis) and then you can either travel by bus to Orito and get a taxi from there to the reserve. Or get a taxi from the airport all the way to the start of the trail. Then there is a scenic birding walk of 2 hours to the lodge. Your luggage can be brought up by horses (has to be arranged in advance). Best is to stay at least 4 full days.

Terrain and Habitat

Forest , Grassland

Conditions

Hilly , Wet

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Can be useful

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Winter , Autumn , Spring

Route

Wide path , Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Average walk

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

Yes

Extra info

Despite Colombia and Putumayo in particular having a bad reputation, the reserve and the surrounding area are safe for everyone. The lodge has bird guides who can track down special species for you. The lodge is also known for its healthy and tasty food. And all this at very affordable rates (approximately € 60 full board). For more info, see the link below.

View other birding spots in the area that are published on Birdingplaces

Map

Top 5 birds

1. Salvin's Curassow
(Mitu salvini)

2. Hairy-crested Antbird
(Rhegmatorhina melanosticta)

3. Fiery-throated Fruiteater
(Pipreola chlorolepidota)

4. Black-faced Hawk
(Leucopternis melanops)

5. Collared Puffbird
(Bucco capensis)

Other birds you can see here

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Gallery

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Comments & Tips

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